Channing Dungey
Channing Dungey (born March 14, 1969) is an American television executive recognized for her leadership roles in network programming and studio production.[1]
She gained prominence as the first African American to serve as president of a major broadcast network's entertainment division when appointed to lead ABC Entertainment in February 2016, overseeing development and scheduling for scripted and unscripted series.[2][3]
During her tenure at ABC until November 2018, Dungey approved the reboot of Roseanne, which achieved high ratings but was abruptly canceled after lead actress Roseanne Barr posted a tweet likening a former Obama aide to an ape-like character from Muslim Brotherhood propaganda, prompting Dungey to deem the statement "abhorrent, repugnant and inconsistent with our values."[4][3][5]
In January 2021, she joined Warner Bros. as Chairman and CEO of Warner Bros. Television Group, the first woman to head the studio's television operations, managing a portfolio including Warner Bros. Television, Warner Horizon Scripted Television, and Telepictures Productions.[6][7]
In December 2024, Warner Bros. Discovery expanded her responsibilities to include oversight of its U.S. Networks division following the retirement of Kathleen Finch, positioning her to guide strategy across both production and distribution amid industry shifts toward streaming.[8][9]
Dungey has received industry accolades, including an Emmy for her executive producing contributions, reflecting her influence on television content amid evolving viewer preferences and corporate consolidations.[10]